In 2025, the college male population is spread thin. From academics to societal expectations that are force-fed through the ever-present influence of social media, it is hard to balance everything while keeping time for mental health. Though it may seem that mental health has come about in recent years, it has been a struggle for generations. Anxiety, depression and stress have held people back from not only making personal changes but moving forward in life.
People often solely associate men going to the gym with gawking at women and the mission to be the best-looking person to hopefully win over a partner. Such instances have closed the doors to many men who truly want to take their lives back in more ways than one.
Although there is no single way to solve the mental health crisis, one often-overlooked way to improve mental health is exercise. Being able to control something when you are lost in your emotions helps reclaim your brain and reset your thoughts.
NCP Open Legends titleholder and YouTuber Sam Sulek said, “I think that there is a really good aspect in having something that you are excited about … I know that I’ve got an hour and a half or maybe even a two-hour chunk of time where I get to do something that I’m really excited about and I enjoy doing.”
Having blocked-out time to leave stress behind and invite joy and excitement into daily life makes the lows seem a little less daunting. The stress of school, society and social media leaves very little downtime for the average college man. Having this dedicated time to set everything aside and do something purely for enjoyment helps “in a dopaminergic sense,” as Sulek put it.
When someone exercises, endorphins are released in the brain. Endorphins are the feel-good chemicals created in the brain that help combat multiple forms of mental health strain, such as anxiety and depression. Activity can also help reduce stress, as stated in multiple research trials. Cortisol, the hormone directly related to stress, is regulated through physical activity.
Not only does exercise help reduce hormones that can be harmful to mental health, but it also boosts serotonin production, which helps regulate mood and overall well-being. This is where physical activity, particularly a structured workout plan or schedule, is crucial in combating these mental blockages. Exercise is not all about hitting your gains or lifting the most weight — it’s about training the brain to build mental resilience.
It’s time we encourage young men to step into the gym, not just for their physical health, but for their mental well-being as well. It’s also crucial to break the outdated stereotype that men only go to the gym to ogle or harass others. In reality, most young men enter the gym seeking self-improvement, discipline and a sense of community. By shifting the narrative, we can highlight the gym as a positive space for mental and physical growth, fostering respect and inclusivity for everyone who steps through its doors.
Michael Dorwaldt is a freshman studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note the opinions expressed in this column do not represent those of The Post. Want to talk to Michael about his column? Email him at Md557123@ohio.edu
